Seahawks history: The 1983 AFC Championship game

Seattle Seahawks coach Chuck Knox, is obviously happy as he is carried from the field after his Seahawks defeated the Miami Dolphins in the AFC-Semi-Finals at Miami on Saturday, Dec. 31, 1983 with a score of 27-20. The AFC Championship game would not end so cheerfully. (AP Photo)

With a huge game for the NFC championship just days away for our Seahawks it’s time to take another look back at the ups and downs in the dramatic history of the Hawks.

As the 70’s became the 80’s – local heroes like quarterback Jim Zorn and receiver Steve Largent emerged as stars with big endorsements like the Dairy Board, where they sang “moo, moo, moo, moo, moo.”

Yes, they could sing, but as NFL Films pointed out, “Now the Seahawks face a tougher challenge.”

In 1983, the team entered the thirteenth week of that season with a 6-and-6 record. Then they caught fire and fought their way into their first ever playoff spot.

They passed the first hurdle by stomping the Denver Broncos by 31 to 7.

Then came the second hurdle – and it was high. “The experts predicted a Seahawks defeat at the hands of the defending AFC champions Dolphins,” recounts NFL films. “The fairy tale had gone on long enough. It was time for a return to reality, but Seattle knew that in all good fairy tales, miracles can happen.”

Their instructions in the huddle were clear, “We’re going to challenge them, everybody has got to give everything they got. No offsides, run like hell, we’ve got to set the pace. Break!”

With just a few minutes left on the clock, the Hawks were up 17 to 13, and then an interception led the Dolphins to take the upper hand, 20 to 17.

Was there enough time for one more miracle?

You’re damn right there was. With two amazing passes, the Hawks drove that ball down the field and into the end zone.

Touchdown Seahawks!

Even the Hawks announcers sounded stunned, “The Seahawks are going to play in the AFC Championship next week. It’s hard to believe.”

About the Author

Dan Restione
After signing on at News Talk 97.3 KIRO FM back in the waning days of the 1980's, Dan's worked his way up from the ranks- working as Desk Assistant, Morning Editor, Afternoon Editor, and Reporter.